International Travelers Bringing Measles Home to the U.S.

One of our clients called to inquire about international travelers coming home with the measles.  I hadn’t heard this, so I did a little homework.

Here’s this from the CDC:

Measles remains a common disease in many parts of the world, including areas in Europe, Asia, the Pacific, and Africa. Worldwide, 36 cases of measles per 1 million persons are reported each year; about 134,200 die. In the United States, most of the measles cases result from international travel. The disease is brought into the United States by unvaccinated people who get infected in other countries. They spread measles to others, which can cause outbreaks.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of getting infected when they travel internationally.

Before any international travel—

• Infants 6 months through 11 months of age should have 1 dose of MMR vaccine.
  • Children in the United States routinely receive MMR vaccination at 12 through 15 months of age.
  • Infants vaccinated before 12 months of age should be revaccinated on or after their first birthday with 2 doses, each dose separated by at least 28 days.
• Children 12 months of age or older should have 2 doses, each dose separated by at least 28 days.
• Adolescents and adults who have not had measles or been vaccinated should get 2 doses separated by at least 28 days.

To learn more, go here: https://www.cdc.gov/measles/travelers.html

I’ve had both the measles and the mumps in the past, so it appears that I’m good.  But, if you haven’t, perhaps you should make a phone call to your doctor before you travel overseas.  I’m sure the last thing you want to do is bring the measles home to your grandchildren.
 
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